As for the signing, it’s a classic no risk move. Once rosters expand, it’s always nice to have a third catcher and the Bucs don’t really have anyone in the system ready to help. And with Martin around, Shoppach won’t be asked to do much.

]]>By: Kevin Gillmanhttp://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/08/12/pirates-sign-kelly-shoppach/comment-page-1/#comment-556750
Mon, 12 Aug 2013 23:35:28 +0000http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/?p=491275#comment-556750I am not the biggest Kelly Shoppach fan, I seen enough of him in Cleveland to see he can’t be a productive hitter with 400 ABs, but I do wonder why the Cardinals didn’t pick him up when Yadier went down. He would have been a good fit there too.
]]>By: edelmanfanclubhttp://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/08/12/pirates-sign-kelly-shoppach/comment-page-1/#comment-556702
Mon, 12 Aug 2013 22:45:26 +0000http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/?p=491275#comment-556702I remember this kid was supposed to be the catcher of the future for Boston and I was kind of happy when he came back as a backup (Then not so happy when he forced his way out since BV wouldnt start him against anyone but lefties). Fact of the matter is he’s a nice backup, a veteran and is more valuable when your starting catcher can’t hit lefties. Since all Shoppach can do is hit lefties.